The competition brought together 29 young entrepreneurs from the metalwork, woodwork and agribusiness sectors, who presented prototypes of their products as they seek to transform their business ideas into marketable ventures.

Speaking at the event, MUBAS Business Incubation Manager Patricia Chimsewa Nkosi said the competition was designed to motivate participants to improve their products, demonstrate their potential and strive for excellence as they progress through the programme.

She said the programme provides young people with an opportunity to discover their abilities and develop practical skills by transforming their ideas into products and business ventures, rather than relying solely on classroom learning.

“Most of the time, people do not realise their capabilities. This is a skills-based programme that encourages young people to bring out their potential and discover what they are capable of achieving,” she said.

Following the presentations, eight participants received recognition awards for their prototypes, comprising three from the metalwork and woodwork sectors and five from agribusiness.

One of the award recipients, Tayamika Matsitsa, who runs a chilli sauce business, said the recognition had strengthened her belief in her business and motivated her to work harder to make it market-ready.

“I believe in my business more now, and I'm going to put in a lot of effort because I've seen that there are others who believe in it as well,” she said.

Matsitsa added that the recognition had boosted her confidence as a young entrepreneur and strengthened her ambition to create employment opportunities for others. She said it had also encouraged her to pursue her vision despite the challenges facing young people, particularly unemployment.

The programme will proceed to the next phase, during which all 29 incubates will continue to receive mentorship and coaching, alongside opportunities to access funding to support the development and growth of their enterprises.

Through the programme, EU and MUBAS are supporting young entrepreneurs to translate business ideas into practical products and viable enterprises, with the potential to create jobs and contribute to Malawi's economic development.